Basilica of Saint-Michel
Basilique Saint-Michel
A flamboyant Gothic church on the Way of St. James pilgrimage route, with a freestanding bell tower 114 meters tall, one of the tallest spires in southern France.
Built between the 14th and 16th centuries in the Flamboyant Gothic style, the church is a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France. Beside it stands the freestanding Tour de La Flèche (La Flèche bell tower), 114 meters high. You can climb about 230 steps to the observation deck for views over the whole city (seasonal opening, paid admission; check the official website for details). The surrounding Saint-Michel district is a multicultural neighborhood. On weekends the square hosts a flea market and a local market, and there are many North African and Middle Eastern eateries nearby.
Opening hours
Church approx. 14:00–17:30; bell tower open Apr–Oct (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Pont de Pierre
- Marché des Capucins
- Porte Cailhau
- Bordeaux Old Town (Saint-Pierre)
- Grosse Cloche
- Place de la Bourse & Miroir d'eau
- Musée d'Aquitaine
- Rue Sainte-Catherine